Microsoft is out to use Windows software to do for altered reality what it did for personal computers: make them commonplace.
The US technology giant today announced that Windows software already powering a wide range of devices including HoloLens augmented reality headgear is being opened to partners interested in building devices for "mixed reality" experiences.
Devices built on the Windows platform will be interoperable, meaning that someone wearing HTC Vive virtual reality gear would be able to virtually visit and collaborate with someone using HoloLens virtual reality goggles, Microsoft executives told AFP.
The list of partners already working with Microsoft included HTC, Lenovo, Asus, and HP.
Microsoft said it built HoloLens to showcase the potential for the technology, which is based on the same Windows operating system that powers computers, smartphones, Xbox consoles and more.
Sharing the Windows platform will mean that augmented or virtual reality gear from various manufacturers will be able to work with one another, the same way Windows computers do.
"We are bringing the software that lights up HoloLens to the entire ecosystem of mixed reality devices -- and inviting partners to join us in this platform," Microsoft spokesman Greg Sullivan told AFP.
